From left: Doctor Ahmed Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor Emirates Aviation College; Doctor David Pilsbury, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Coventry University; and Gary Chapman, President Group Services and dnata, awarding one of the graduates with his diploma. EMIRATES Aviation College, the institution of choice for higher education in aviation studies, awarded graduation honors on the 2012 class of over 150 graduates Monday. Gary Chapman, President Group Services and dnata, conferred degrees across a multitude of disciplines. Significant among the graduates, the entire graduating class from the Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Software Engineering programme was composed of UAE nationals employed by Emirates. Having completed their higher diplomas from the College last year, all 13 students studied further and have earned their bachelor degrees as well. Support for Emiratis is a key part of the Emirates Group Nationalization program and the Emirates Aviation College plays a key role in supporting education for these employees. A total of 27 graduates, nearly 20 percent of the total graduates, were UAE nationals. "Our average student age of 25 years old is a clear indication of how the Emirates Aviation College is meeting the needs of students from a variety of backgrounds – school leavers entering higher education for the first time through to mature students extending their education through graduation programs. In fact, 22 percent of the graduates have earned their second degree from the College," said Dr. Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor Emirates Aviation College. – SG
